Uric Acid Test: Understanding the Test and Its Uses

A uric acid test is a medical test that measures the amount of uric acid in a sample of blood or urine. Uric acid is a normal waste product that the body produces when it breaks down chemicals called purines. In this product description, we will discuss the purpose of the test, its uses, and how it works.

Purpose of  Uric Acid  Test

The purpose of the uric acid test is to detect high levels of uric acid in the blood or urine, which could be a sign of the condition gout, or to monitor uric acid levels when undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer[1]. It is also used to diagnose the cause of kidney stones and to monitor those with gout who are at risk of developing such stones[1].

Uses of the Test

Uric acid measurements are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of gout, renal failure, and a variety of other disorders including leukemia, psoriasis, starvation, and other wasting conditions[2]. Patients receiving cytotoxic drugs may be monitored with uric acid measurements[2]. Elevated uric acid levels can occur with increased purine synthesis, inherited metabolic disorders, excess dietary purine intake, increased nucleic acid turnover, malignancy, cytotoxic drugs, decreased excretion due to chronic renal failure, and increased renal reabsorption[2].

How the Test Works

A uric acid test may be done as a blood test or a urine test[3]. For a blood test, a healthcare professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial[3]. A urine uric acid test may be ordered when you suffer from recurrent kidney stones or have gout and need to be monitored for the formation of these stones[1]. Uric acid at-home test kits are available but not common. At-home test kits usually use a blood sample from a finger prick to measure the amount of uric acid in the blood[1].

 Summary of the test

The uric acid test is a useful medical test that measures the amount of uric acid in a sample of blood or urine. It is used to detect high levels of uric acid in the blood or urine, which could be a sign of the condition gout, or to monitor uric acid levels when undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer. The test is also used to diagnose the cause of kidney stones and to monitor those with gout who are at risk of developing such stones. If you suspect you may need a uric acid test, it is talk to your doctor or call us for a free consultation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Citations:
[1] https://www.testing.com/tests/uric-acid/
[2] https://www.labcorp.com/tests/001057/uric-acid
[3] https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/uric-acid-test/
[4] https://www.verywellhealth.com/uric-acid-test-4769739
[5] https://www.questhealth.com/product/gout-uric-acid-test-905M.html